Smooth Sumac is a native shrub or small tree with long compound leaves, open branching form, and dense cone-shaped clusters of deep red berries. It grows in spreading stands, forming natural colonies that define edges, hillsides, and open land. Its structure is upright but airy, with a seasonal rhythm that moves from bright green summer foliage to intense red and orange fall color.
It functions as a native support and stabilization species, spreading through root systems to hold soil, build organic matter, and create living structure across degraded or open ground. It establishes easily, requires little maintenance, and forms self-sustaining colonies that support surrounding plant communities.
It also makes amazing lemonade if you use berries from the best tasting shrubs.
Eastern/Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra)
•Pollinators: attracts native bees, hoverflies, moths, & butterflies.
•Birds: Wild turkeys, robins, bluebirds and many other species feed on the berries.
••Landscape role: good for complimenting forest edges and pathways, erosion control, and regenerative boundary lines.
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